MARIETTA, Ga. -  The Life University men's basketball team secured a hard-fought 88-78 victory over Brewton-Parker on the road in a crucial SSAC matchup. The Running Eagles relied on a balanced attack and key plays down the stretch to secure the needed conference win.

The game opened with Life U taking a slight edge, leading 40-31 at halftime. The first half saw significant contributions from Cortez Johnson, who scored five early points and grabbed four rebounds. Elias Ramirez provided an offensive spark, sinking a three-pointer at the 15:09 mark to extend the lead. Life's defense forced six first-half turnovers while out-rebounding Brewton-Parker 28-18.

In the second half, Brewton-Parker surged back, cutting the deficit to a single point. However, the Running Eagles responded with a decisive 9-0 run midway through the period. Johnson led the charge with back-to-back baskets in the paint, finishing the game with a team-high 20 points and seven rebounds. Ramirez continued his hot shooting, adding three more three-pointers in the half and finishing with 14 points.

Life's bench played a crucial role, contributing 32 points. Dara Olonade led bench production with 13 points and eight rebounds, including a putback layup with 6:12 left that helped secure the lead. Matija Gledic added 15 points and a game-high 13 rebounds, including a clutch three-pointer late in the game.

Despite strong shooting from Brewton-Parker's Dre Burroughs, who scored a game-high 23 points and made six three-pointers, Life's defensive intensity and rebounding proved decisive. The Running Eagles out-rebounded the Barons 47-31, including 21 offensive boards that led to 16 second-chance points.

Life U shot 41.3% from the field, including 30% from beyond the arc, and converted 13 of 27 free throws. Brewton-Parker shot 40% overall and 34.5% from three but committed 10 turnovers, leading to nine points for Life.

With the win, the Running Eagles improve to 10-3 overall and 4-1 in conference play. Up next, the Running Eagles remain on the road with a contest against Freed-Hardeman next Friday.